Treatment of chronic actinic dermatitis with tacrolimus ointment.

Abstract

Chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) is difficult to treat. Topical corticosteroids induce adverse effects after long-term use, especially on light-exposed skin. Our purpose was to study the effects of tacrolimus ointment in the treatment of elderly patients with CAD. In an open trial, 6 male patients between 51 and 80 years old with CAD applied 0.1% tacrolimus ointment twice a day to the face and neck. According to improvements, the frequency of application was reduced. Sunscreen agents were also applied outdoors. Tacrolimus ointment effectively treated cutaneous changes in all patients. Symptoms were moderately improved in 2 weeks, and greatly in 4 weeks. A brief and localized irritating sensation occurred in all patients, but no other adverse events developed throughout the study course from 0.5 to 2.5 years. Topical tacrolimus ointment for facial lesions of CAD appears to be effective and well tolerated and may provide long-term benefits.